Segment:
Compact sport coupe
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking performance and distinctive styling, individuals looking for reliable and manageable sport coupe maintenance.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Camry Solara, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Honda Prelude, Ford Probe, Nissan 240SX
Styling:
Sleek, aerodynamic design with a distinctive sloping roofline.
Performance:
Available V6 engine offering a good balance of power and refinement for its class.
Handling:
Focus on Mazda's 'Jinba Ittai' (horse and rider as one) driving philosophy, providing engaging handling characteristics.
Reliability:
Generally good reliability associated with Mazda vehicles of this era.
Technician Grade:
Dealership-level technical information, enabling accurate diagnosis and repair.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, lubrication, cooling system
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection system (EFI), ignition system, emissions control systems (EGR, PCV), engine diagnostics, turbocharger (if applicable)
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, gearshift mechanism, internal transmission components, torque specifications, disassembly/assembly
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission operation, hydraulic control, torque converter, valve body, solenoids, transmission fluid, diagnostic procedures
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive axles, constant velocity (CV) joints, differential, driveshafts
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, wheel alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, steering wheel, hydraulic pump
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), brake calipers, rotors, pads, master cylinder, brake lines, hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, circuits
Electronics Control:
Engine Control Unit (ECU), transmission control, ABS control module, comfort/convenience modules, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Body Exterior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, mirrors, weatherstripping, paint codes
Body Interior:
Dashboard, seats, upholstery, trim panels, HVAC controls, sound insulation, safety restraints (airbags, seatbelts)
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, climate control panel
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, tire rotations
Component Replacement:
Alternator, starter motor, battery, brake pads/rotors, clutch, water pump, timing belt, fuel pump, suspension components
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation, symptom-based diagnostics, electrical system testing
Rebuilds:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, brake system rebuilding
Adjustments:
Valve adjustments, idle speed adjustments, parking brake adjustments, headlight aim
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of special tools required for specific repairs
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance, pressure readings
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and electrical troubleshooting.
Engine Code Base:
KJ-ZE (2.7L V6 DOHC)
Displacement:
2.7 Liters (2700 cc)
Configuration:
V6 (60-degree bank angle)
Valvetrain:
DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 24 valves
Horsepower:
Approximately 170-175 hp @ 6000 rpm (varies slightly by market)
Torque:
Approximately 170-175 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (varies slightly by market)
Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium recommended)
Coolant Type:
Mazda FL22 or equivalent long-life coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Oil Capacity W Filter:
Approximately 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on climate)
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Recommended every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years
Service Intervals General
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 24,000 miles (38,000 km) or 2 years.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mazda Power Steering Fluid or equivalent Dexron III type ATF
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Windshield Washer Fluid:
Automotive windshield washer fluid concentrate diluted with distilled water.
Engine Mounts:
Can degrade over time, leading to increased vibration.
Automatic Transmission:
Some units may experience hard shifting or slipping; fluid and filter changes are crucial.
Cv Joints:
Wear on front CV joint boots can lead to grease leakage and eventual joint failure.
Power Steering Pump:
Can develop leaks or noise with age.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion on grounds and connectors can cause intermittent electrical faults.
Suspension Bushings:
Rubber bushings in control arms and sway bars can degrade, affecting handling and ride quality.